According to reports, Sanjay Leela Bhansali has finalised Fawad Khan to star as Deepika Padukone’s screen husband in his period epic, Padmavati. Reportedly, Fawad was in Mumbai for the past couple of weeks, finalising the deal.

A source was quoted saying, “Bhansali wants 200 days from all his lead actors, including Ranveer Singh (plays Alauddin Khilji) and Deepika (Padmavati). Fawad has those days to spare. In between, he has Karan Johar’s production, but it should not be a problem as KJo and Bhansali share a good equation. So they will work it out. It’s too big an offer for Fawad to pass up.”

The source added, “The first schedule is with Deepika and her husband’s character. The scenes between Deepika and Ranveer are being shot separately as they never meet in the film. Initially, a TV actor was to be signed, but Deepika put her foot down. A random actor from television won’t do for her. While she has no scenes with Ranveer, she shares some intense romantic and lovemaking scenes with her husband, so she wants a big star as her hero.”

Is Deepika Padukone Bhansali’s Padmavati? Here’s What She Says

Actress Deepika Padukone refused to comment on reports that she will once again be a part of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s next, Padmavati, saying she is not in a position to confirm her casting.

There are reports that Mr Bhansali will begin shooting the period drama in September. The film is based on oppressive ruler Alauddin Khilji’s obsession for Rani Padmavati.

Ranveer Singh will reportedly play Khilji, while Deepika, 30, may take on the titular role.

When asked about the project at the IIFA Awards, Deepika said, “Why don’t you ask Sanjay sir? He is here. He will be able to tell you. I think IIFA was a good platform to announce it. But then I don’t know. I can’t say anything at the moment. It is up to Sanjay to confirm.”

In 2008, Mr Bhansali went to Paris to direct the 1923 opera ballet Padmavati, written by Albert Rousselan, for the prestigious Theatre Du Chatelet. The Bajirao Mastani actress, who has wrapped her debut Hollywood film xXx: Return of Xander Cage, however said she will begin shooting her next film in September.

“I will begin shooting in the next two months for my next Bollywood film. I can’t say which one,” Deepika said on the IIFA Green carpet.

If things fall into place then Padmavati would be Deepika’s third film with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, having previously collaborated with the director on Ram Leela and Bajirao Mastani.

About the Author

Syed Ammar Alavi - is Lahore (Pakistan) based journalist & writer with 25-year experience in print, wire and broadcast forms of journalism. His major fields of interest are politics, film,tv,sports, climate change and technology